Commissioner Roswall has confirmed that the European Commission will not review the phase-out dates for mercury-containing lamps for general lighting purposes, meaning the exemption for certain high-pressure sodium (vapour) lamps will expire on 24 February 2027 as scheduled. The answer, given on 17 June 2026, responds to a written question from ECR MEP Ondřej Krutílek, who had asked whether the Commission would consider extending the exemption due to limited availability of substitutes and socio-economic impacts.
Roswall explained that under the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive, exemptions for mercury-added lamps are listed in Annex III, with most having expired between 2016 and 2025. The remaining exemption for high-pressure sodium lamps with improved colour rendering index and power input of 105 W or less expires on 24 February 2027. Crucially, the Commission did not receive a renewal application, which under Article 5(5) of the directive must be submitted at least 18 months before expiry. The February 2026 exemptions validity and rolling plan already flagged this.
The decision upholds the EU's long-standing policy to phase out mercury in lighting, aligning with environmental and health objectives under the RoHS Directive. For manufacturers and importers of these lamps, the phase-out means a definitive end to placing such products on the EU market, potentially increasing costs for niche applications where LED substitutes are not yet fully equivalent in colour rendering. For the lighting industry, the move reinforces the transition to mercury-free alternatives, while environmental groups will welcome the elimination of a toxic substance. The Commission's stance signals no further flexibility on deadlines, putting the onus on industry to adapt before the 2027 cut-off.
← Atlas › News › Environment